poignant

What does “poignant” mean?

adjective.evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret.

SAT Usage

this adjective often appears in literary passages or excerpts discussing themes of loss, nostalgia, or emotional reflection. It emphasizes a deep emotional resonance that lingers in the reader’s mind, setting it apart from similar words like "sorrowful," which may not convey the same intensity or complexity of feeling.

Common Confusions

Poignant implies a deep emotional resonance that evokes sadness or regret, while sorrowful usually suggests a more straightforward expression of sadness without the same layered intensity.

Example Sentences

• The final letter was a deeply poignant farewell to her family.

• A poignant reply will garner more credence than hours of blown smoke.

• His comments were poignant and witty.

• The poignant farewell speech she delivered brought tears to the eyes of everyone in the audience, leaving a lasting impression.